“I just happen to have some peanut butter.” He gestured toward the office. “Come on. I’m starving.”
Cody followed him, smiling slightly, shoulders relaxed. Progress. Good old exercise had come through for Roan once again. His old friend never let him down.
8
REESE
Reese choseAll I Want For Christmas is Youas the song for her first dance lesson with the kids. She’d taught the routine to her adult class over the years during the holiday season, and it was always a hit. There was something about the music that put everyone in a festive mood. She hoped it would do the same for the kids.
She adjusted the lighting and did a quick sound check as she waited for them to arrive. Hardwood floors were clean, thanks to the janitor who came by every evening. Wall to ceiling mirrors reflected the thin winter light streaming through the tall windows. Ballet barres ran along three of the four walls. Above it all, a disco ball hung from the ceiling, always a hit with dancers of all ages.
She hoped the kids would come. She felt sure Emma would. She’d been so excited yesterday, talking about how much she missed dancing. Marcus had seemed interested too. Was it because he wanted to dance or he just needed a warm space to go to after school? She couldn’t be sure. But wasn’t that the reason for The Bridge Program? To give kids like Marcus a place to go. She’d brought nuts and dried fruit to slip into his bag for after class.
Reese thought Julia would show. However, she doubted Cody would come. He’d been adamant.I’m not dancing. Not a chance.
Of course, Roan had no reason to come. He wasn’t interested in dance. And he was probably busy at the gym. Still, a small—probably foolish—part of her hoped he might join them. Perhaps as a favor to her for joining them yesterday?
Her phone buzzed with a text. It was from Grace to their group chat.
Grace
Mia has offered up her restaurant for our gala! I’d love to talk through some ideas and see who I can entice to help me. Is anyone available to meet for dinner at La Danza tomorrow at 6:30?
Roan
I can be there!
David
I’ll be a few minutes late, but count on me too.
Mrs. Chen
Count me in!
Reese didn’t have plans tomorrow evening. She hardly ever did on a Saturday evening unless it was with Mauve.
Reese
I can make it too. Looking forward to hearing all about the gala!
Reese set aside her phone, catching a glimpse of herself in the mirror. She had on her usual black leggings paired with a fitted tank top. Her hair was up in a high ponytail. She wore minimal makeup to work but now she wondered if she should have done her face with more care. It wasn’t often she thought twice about her appearance, but Roan Hayes’ arrival back in town seemed to have kicked in her vanity. Did she look old to him? She’d been barely eighteen years old when he’d seen her last. What had he thought when he first saw her after all that time? Did he notice the fine lines around her eyes?
The door opened. Emma arrived, her face bright with excitement.
“I’m a little early,” Emma said. “But I was so anxious to get here, I practically ran all the way from school. Roan will be happy I got some cardio in.”
“I’m glad you’re excited,” Reese said, smiling. “And you’re going to get a lot of cardio in this class. How are you feeling after yesterday?”
“So sore. My arms are like noodles. But that won’t keep me from dancing.” Emma dug into her bag, pulling out the leggings and top from the day before. “Don’t worry. I washed them after yesterday.” She ran off to change, practically skipping across the hardwood floor.
“There are sticky socks in there for you,” Reese called after her.
“Yay. I hope they’re pink.”
In fact, they were pink. Reese had picked them out especially for her. For Julia, she’d chosen a sassy, striped pair.
The door opened again. Julia and Marcus came in together, cheeks flushed from the cold.
